Healthy Tomato Kimchi
Low-Sodium, Low-Sugar! Refreshing Tomato Kimchi Recipe
Introducing ‘Tomato Kimchi,’ a special recipe presented at the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s competition for low-sodium and low-sugar dishes. Tomatoes are rich in potassium, which helps expel excess salt from the body, making them an excellent ingredient for a low-sodium diet. This dish offers a fresh and vibrant flavor profile, distinct from traditional kimchi, that will awaken your appetite and contribute to your well-being.
Ingredients- 2 ripe, firm tomatoes
- 1 bunch fresh chives (approx. 50g)
- 1/6 onion (approx. 30g)
- 3 Tbsp fine gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1 tsp bamboo salt
- 1 Tbsp sweet plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1 Tbsp savory anchovy sauce (ganari aekjeot)
- 4 Tbsp allulose (sugar substitute for sweetness)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp minced green onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Marinating the Tomatoes: First, wash the tomatoes thoroughly and remove the stems. Cut them into 8 wedges each. In a bowl, combine the cut tomatoes with 1/2 tsp bamboo salt and 3 tsp allulose. Gently mix and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process will draw out some of the tomato’s moisture and allow the seasoning to penetrate, enhancing their flavor.
Step 2
Preparing the Crisp Vegetables: Cut the chives into 4cm lengths. Their fresh aroma and texture will enrich the kimchi’s flavor. Thinly slice the onion into approximately 2mm thick strips. The onion’s subtle sweetness and refreshing crispness will create a wonderful harmony with the tomatoes.
Step 3
Making the Spicy and Sweet Kimchi Paste: In a separate bowl, combine 3 Tbsp gochugaru, 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce for umami, 1 Tbsp plum extract for a sweet and sour taste, 1 tsp minced garlic, and 1 tsp minced green onion. Mix well to create the paste. The mixture might seem a bit thick due to the tomatoes’ moisture, but this is normal. It will reach the right consistency when mixed with the vegetables and tomatoes.
Step 4
Combining and Mixing All Ingredients: Gently drain the marinated tomatoes using a sieve. Then, add the prepared chives, sliced onion, and the kimchi paste to the tomatoes. Carefully mix everything together, being mindful not to mash the tomatoes. Finally, add an additional 1 tsp of allulose to enhance glossiness and adjust sweetness, then gently toss to combine. Allulose is a great choice for healthy recipes as it provides sweetness without the high sugar content of regular sugar. This tomato kimchi can be enjoyed immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for a more mature flavor.
